Kingdom Manna

Treasures

Mark 4:30, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it?”

Seeking to bridge the gap, searching for a means of communication Jesus reaches for a concrete image, a point of relationship; a familiar picture, a story.

Metamorphosis. Changed. Caterpillar to butterfly.

Basic concepts clearly detailed and defined. Even to a young child we can describe the process, show a demonstration, observe the phenomena. Science opens up doors of discovery. We follow intricate paths with increasing fascination. Further and further we explore.

Caterpillar to chrysalis to creation.

“With what can we compare or what parable will we use for it?” Of 800,000 species of insects discovered, butterflies are the second largest order, outnumbered only by beetles. Fragile beauty living a reality unseen, unnoticed, amidst our hectic lives.

Except, occasionally, we pause to watch in wonder when this delicate life dances before us catching our attention. And we wonder at its ethereal flight. And we are amazed.

Glimpses of beauty, peace and love draw me toward Your kingdom, Lord, and my heart catches within me. I long to recognize it, live in it. Lift me I pray. Prepare Your chrysalis for me that I too may be changed .

Psalm of Worship: Psalm 145:10-11

All your works shall give thanks to you,

O Lord, and all your faithful shall bless you.

They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom,

Leaving Egypt Behind

Scripture: Exodus 9:5, And the Lord set a definite time, saying, “Tomorrow the Lord will do this thing in the land.”

Toddlers and teenagers are notorious for pushing limits. Newly discovered mental and physical capabilities shout for exercise, exploration, experimentation. Life is exciting, challenging, timeless. Boundaries are barriers, limits are made to be broken.

To parents the limits spell security, a safe environment in which their offspring can experience the highs and lows of growing, can understand accomplishments and accept accountability.

The Lord set a specific time frame for Pharaoh, warning a pestilence on Egyptian cattle but safety for Israel. Israel’s boundaries separated and protected them, both by duration and space.

Time is in God’s hands. He holds our situations within His boundaries. He sets a definite time for us; to stretch, to nurture, to mature.

Turn my eyes, Lord, to the possibilities surrounding me. Extend my reach to new capabilities, knowing I am safe in Your secured limits.

Psalm of Worship: Psalm 90:12

So teach us to number our days,

That we may present to Thee a heart of wisdom.